The Greater Birmingham Chamber of Commerce are looking for a proactive, engaging individual to join our Policy Team as a Senior Policy & Patron Advisor.
Working as part of a small team, the successful candidate will work closely with the Director of Policy & Strategic Relationships and the Policy & Patron Advisor. They will lead the Chambers’ policy and lobbying activity on Transport & Infrastructure, the Quarterly Economic Survey/Quarterly Business Report, the Midlands Engine and Taxation and Regulation. They will support the Director of Policy & Strategic Relationships in the retention of c.17 of the GBCC’s 36 Patrons (our top tier of membership), proactively supporting those with an interest in transport policy in particular.
They will act as a GBCC media spokesperson for local media enquiries on topics relating to the above policy areas, undertake public facing presentations and speaker engagements, participate in stakeholder groups and proactively build and develop a network of contacts in relevant organisations (e.g. GBS LEP, the WMCA, Birmingham City Council) to support their policy work.
A practical, outcomes focused approach to policy work is essential, as is the ability to manage a varied workload and get to grips with new policy areas quickly and effectively. Strong administrative/organisational competencies and excellent written and verbal communication skills are expected, as is the ability to work independently as well as within a team. We are looking for candidates educated to degree level or equivalent (ideally in a relevant subject) with proven experience in a similar/relevant role.
The exact mix of policy areas and skills specified in this role are unusual. What is most important is a natural intelligence, dedication, interpersonal effectiveness and willingness to grasp new policy areas. The successful candidate will occasionally need to be available to work early mornings or into evenings when needed (e.g. for breakfast or evening events).
The Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce (GBCC) are here to connect, support and grow local businesses. Accredited by the British Chambers of Commerce, we have given a voice to local businesses since 1813. GBCC is headquartered in Edgbaston, Birmingham, and covers six geographic divisions and three themed Chambers. GBCC plays a critical role in representing the local business community and campaigning on their behalf. The Policy Team also leads day to day account management of the GBCC’s c.36 Patrons.